5th Grade | Charlotte Mason Books-to-Movies - Part One
Are you looking for an engaging way to bring literature to life for your homeschoolers? This list brings together film adaptations of Living Books found on 5th Grade Charlotte Mason reading lists!
Watching the movie after reading the book can bring the story to life, reinforce comprehension, and spark rich, meaningful conversations—all while supporting a gentle, literature-rich approach to education.
Just a quick reminder: every family has different standards, so I always recommend previewing films or checking content reviews for anything you’re not familiar with. To make things easier, I’ve linked a content guide with each movie listed below. And if you’re ever unsure about a title, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to help!
I hope this list brings new favorites into your home and gives your family many cozy, memorable movie nights. Don’t forget to take a peek at my YouTube playlist—some of these films are available to watch for free!
This is just Part One of the 5th Grade Books-to-Movies list, so stay tuned—Part Two is on the way!
Anne of Green Gables 1985 | TV-G | Available to watch on DVD and Gazebo TV
This is a beautiful and faithful adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved classic novel following the adventures of a redheaded orphan with a vivid imagination who finds love, friendship, and a true home at Green Gables. Set in early Edwardian period (1901 onward). CONTENT GUIDE: Parent Previews
Anne of Avonlea (Anne of Green Gables: The Sequel) 1987 | PG | Available to watch on DVD and Gazebo TV
Anne of Avonlea (1987) continues the story of Anne Shirley as she begins her new life as a teacher in Avonlea. Now a young woman, Anne faces new challenges and joys, from managing mischievous students to navigating her own feelings for Gilbert. The film beautifully captures the charm and quiet growth of Anne’s journey into adulthood. Set in 1906, Edwardian era. CONTENT GUIDE: IMDb and Common Sense Media
Bambi 1942 | G | Available to watch on DVD and Disney+
Walt Disney’s Bambi (1942), based on Felix Salten’s 1923 novel, follows the journey of a young deer from birth to adulthood. Through the changing seasons, Bambi learns about friendship, survival, and the hardships that come with growing up in the wild. It’s a poignant and poetic film that continues to resonate with viewers of all ages. CONTENT GUIDE: Rarest Kind of Best
Black Beauty 1994 | G | Available to watch on DVD and Tubi
In Black Beauty (1994), a beautiful black horse experiences both kindness and cruelty as he passes from one owner to another in Victorian England (late 19th-century). His journey highlights themes of compassion, perseverance, and the special and enduring bond between humans and animals. Based on Anna Sewell’s children’s novel. CONTENT GUIDE: Kids-in-Mind
Cheaper By the Dozen 1950 | G | Available to watch on DVD and Dailymotion (Tip: watch on Brave browser to block the ads!)
Cheaper by the Dozen (1950) is a heartwarming and humorous story based on the real-life Gilbreth family and their twelve children. Led by efficiency expert Frank Gilbreth and his patient wife Lillian, the film follows the lively household’s ups and downs with charm and wit. It's a delightful portrayal of large family life in the 1920s. Cheaper By the Dozen is adapted from the memoir by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey. CONTENT GUIDE: Common Sense Media
Old Yeller 1957 | G | Available to watch on DVD and Disney+
Set in post-Civil War Texas, Old Yeller tells the story of a brave stray dog, Old Yeller, who bonds with a frontier family and protects them through hardship. As young Travis takes on more responsibility while his father is away, Old Yeller becomes his loyal companion. This classic Disney film is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, with a strong focus on family, courage, and sacrifice. Based on the book by Fred Gipson. CONTENT GUIDE: Raising Children Network and Common Sense Media
Heidi 1968 | G | Available to watch on DVD and YouTube
Heidi (1968) follows the journey of a little girl in the Swiss Alps whose cheerful spirit brings comfort to everyone she meets, from her reclusive grandfather to her wheelchair-bound friend Clara. Takes place in the late 1800s, and is based on the children’s book by Johanna Spyri. CONTENT GUIDE: IMDb and Dove (approved for all ages)
Heidi 2005 | G | Available to watch on DVD and YouTube
This sweet adaptation of Heidi (2005) captures the spirit of Johanna Spyri’s children’s novel, with Heidi’s infectious optimism and determination transforming the lives of those around her. The film follows Heidi’s journey, from her time with her stern grandfather in the Alps to her friendship with Clara in the city. Set in the 1880s. CONTENT GUIDE: Common Sense Media and Dove (approved for all ages)
Heidi 2015 | G | Available to watch on DVD, YouTube, Tubi, Amazon Prime Video, Plex, and more
Heidi (2015) is a Swiss-German production, with a version dubbed in English (you can find it here on YouTube, located in my playlist for 5th Grade Charlotte Mason Books-to-Movies). This adaptation of Johanna Spyri’s novel is absolutely beautiful, and is shot on location in the alps. The film follows Heidi and she journeys from the Swiss mountains to the city and back again. CONTENT GUIDE: IMDb
Island of the Blue Dolphins 1967 | TV-G | Available to watch on DVD
Based on Scott O'Dell’s Newbery Medal–winning novel, Island of the Blue Dolphins (1967) tells the incredible true-inspired story of a Native American girl named Karana, who survives alone on an island off the California coast. After being left behind when her tribe evacuates, Karana learns to fend for herself using courage, ingenuity, and a deep connection to nature. The film is a quiet but powerful tribute to resilience and self-reliance. CONTENT GUIDE: Family Home Theater
Laddie 1940 | Not Rated | Available to watch on YouTube
Based on the novel by Gene Stratton-Porter (Laddie: A True Blue Story, published in 1913), Laddie (1940) tells the heartwarming story of a kind-hearted farm boy who falls in love with the daughter of a proud Englishman. Despite their different social standings, Laddie’s honesty, hard work, and integrity slowly win over her disapproving father. With its wholesome themes and gentle romance, this classic film emphasizes the value of character over class. CONTENT GUIDE: I was unable to find a content guide to link, but I have no concerns with this sweet, wholesome, and absolutely family-friendly film. There is some gentle, old-fashioned romance (some brief kissing and embracing).
I hope Part One of 5th Grade Charlotte Mason Books-to-Movies List adds a fun and memorable touch to your family’s homeschool experience. If you end up watching any of these, I’d love to hear which ones your family enjoyed the most—feel free to comment below to share your thoughts.
If you enjoyed this list, be sure to check out the other grades as well! There are so many wholesome book-to-movie adaptations to explore together. Also, be sure to check out Historical Movies for Families! And don’t forget—this is just Part One of the 5th grade list, so stay tuned for Part Two coming soon!
